PITA PARAONE MP

Media Release

20 October 2005

Minister Must Work The Cabinet Room For Maori

New Zealand First congratulates Hon Parekura Horomia for his reinstatement as Maori Affairs Minister, and his elevation to the front bench, but warns that his performance will be closely monitored.

“After six years on his watch as the Minister of Maori Affairs, the status of Maori has not noticeably improved,” said Maori Affairs spokesperson Pita Paraone.

“In terms of health, education, income, employment, mortality, child welfare and any other social indicator you care to name, Maori are still comparing unfavourably with other New Zealanders.

“I expect the Minister to be putting pressure on his Cabinet colleagues to apply workable policies that result in Maori being able to step up to the plate.

“The Ministers with new portfolios will be wanting to make their mark. Let’s see them take the difficult road of effecting positive change, instead of the hand-wringing platitudes we’ve been hearing for too long.

“It’s time to see some results from this Government as it heads into its third term. The level playing field that has long been an ideal in New Zealand is further away from reality now than it has ever been, and that is unacceptable,” said Mr Paraone.

ENDS

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